Fire Hydrant Anti-Tamper System

ABSTRACT

The present invention is directed toward an anti-tamper system for fire hydrants that prevents intentional introduction of contaminates into the water system as well as prevents unauthorized removal of water from the water system while still providing easy access to pressurized water by authorized personnel. The system is constructed and arranged to prevent the rotation of the valve stem and/or the nozzle cap(s) by unauthorized users. The system replaces or modifies the valve stem to include at least one aperture therethrough. A replacement nozzle cap is also provided. The nozzle cap includes a centrally located locking bar that cooperates with both the valve stem and the nozzle cap to prevent rotation thereof by unauthorized persons. A release tool is provided to remove or retract the locking bar from the valve stem, to allow valve operation, while simultaneously allowing rotation of the nozzle cap to allow removal thereof from the outlet port. Relocking merely requires the valve stem to be rotated to close the valve. Thereafter, the nozzle cap is replaced over the outlet port and the locking bar is moved into engagement with the stem and the nozzle cap to lock both in their respective positions until the locking bar is removed or retracted with the release tool.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to fire hydrants, and more particularly, to a system for preventing unauthorized removal of water or insertion of material into a new or pre-existing fire hydrant.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Modern fire hydrants typically include a bonnet mounted on a standpipe extending out of the ground and connected at a lower end to a fitting and a coupler which is, in turn, connected to the water distribution conveyance piping, also called a water supply main. A valve extends down through the bonnet and standpipe to control the flow of water through the fire hydrant from the water supply main. A valve operating nut extends outward from the bonnet to provide for selective movement of the valve.

One or more discharge nozzle caps are threadingly mounted on sleeves extending outward from the bonnet. Removal of the discharge nozzle caps allows a threaded connection between the sleeve and a fire hose for dispensing water from the fire hydrant when the operating nut is rotated to move the valve to an open position allowing water flow through the hydrant to the fire hose.

Tampering is a constant problem for municipal utilities. Frequently, a discharge nozzle cap is removed from the bonnet and the valve moved to the open position by a non-utility person or fireman to allow water flow from the fire hydrant. While this can be a harmless prank, an open flowing fire hydrant causes a significant decrease in the pressure of the water supply main. This results in an inability to fight fires within the entire section or loop part of the supply main grid since all nearby fire hydrants on that portion of the grid are rendered useless.

A more serious problem is the easy access to the water supply through the fire hydrant for the introduction of harmful elements, such as bacteria, virus, poison etc. It is relatively easy to remove the discharge nozzle cap, introduce a harmful element into the empty interior of the fire hydrant, re-thread the discharge nozzle cap onto the sleeve and then operate the valve stem to move the valve to the open position. The flow of water through the water main will then draw the introduced elements into the water supply.

Various tamper resistant devices have been constructed to make it more difficult to unauthorizedly open the fire hydrant and the discharge of water therethrough. Such devices are typically mechanical in nature and fit over the valve operating nut or one or more of the discharge nozzle caps to prevent unauthorized movement of the spindle or cap.

Examples include U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,450,148, 5,072,750, 5,205,312, 5,469,724, 6,089,253, 6,112,761, 6,691,732, 6,802,338, 6,901,950, 6,994,106, 7,040,342, 7,096,882 and U.S. Published Application Number 2007/0095113.

However, such tamper resistant devices have met with limited success as a deterrent for children whom open fire hydrants to cool off and the average water thief, such as, contractors, pool companies, lawn spraying companies, etc.

In addition, the prior tamper resistant devices are inadequate for security purposes in the case of the deliberate introduction of contamination or toxic materials into the water supply through a fire hydrant. The wrenches, special tools and mechanical locks or actuators used in such tamper resistant devices are easily defeated by means of homemade tools, large pipe wrenches, or, in many cases, the actual fire hydrant opening tools acquired from water departments, fire departments, etc., and circulated through a public works department to contractors, plumbers, etc. Further, the only way to determine if a fire hydrant has been tampered with is to visually inspect the hydrant or the tamper resistant device to see if it has been damaged, opened, etc. An individual intent on the deliberate introduction of contaminates into a water system can undetectedly remove a discharge nozzle cap, introduce the contaminates into the hydrant, reinstall the cap, and then open the valve operating nut to cause the contaminates to be drawn into the water supply main. Since there is no discharge of water from the hydrant or resulting pressure loss in the water supply section or grid, this activity is undetectable.

Therefore, there exists a need in the art for a tamper resistant system for fire hydrants that prevents the introduction of foreign materials into a water supply via a fire hydrant. The system should also prevent unauthorized removal of water through from the hydrant while providing fireman and other authorized users easy and fast access to water within the water system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly, the present invention is directed toward an anti-tamper system for fire hydrants that prevents introduction of contaminates into the water system which supplies water to the fire hydrants and also prevents unauthorized removal of water from the water system the supplies water to the fire hydrants while providing easy access to water by authorized personnel, such as firemen.

In most areas, particularly those subject to freezing temperatures, only a portion of the hydrant is positioned above the ground. In these systems a valve is located below the frost line and connected via a riser to the above ground portion. A valve stem extends from the valve through a seal in the top portion of the hydrant, where it can be operated with the proper wrench. This design is known as a “dry barrel” hydrant, in that the barrel of the hydrant is normally dry. One or more outlet ports are provided for connection of hoses and the like for distribution of the water.

In warmer areas, where freezing of the water is not a problem, one or more valves may be incorporated above the freeze line, “wet barrel”, whereby one or more valve stems may be rotated, via the proper wrench, to allow water to flow from one or more outlet ports.

The present invention is directed toward an anti-tamper system for fire hydrants that prevents intentional introduction of contaminates into the water system as well as prevents unauthorized removal of water from the water system while still providing easy access to pressurized water by authorized personnel. The system is constructed and arranged to prevent the rotation of the valve stem and/or the nozzle cap(s) by unauthorized users. The system replaces or modifies the stem to include at least one aperture therethrough. A replacement nozzle cap is also provided. The nozzle cap includes a centrally located locking bar that cooperates with both the valve stem and the nozzle cap to prevent rotation thereof by unauthorized persons. A release tool is provided to remove or retract the locking bar from the valve stem, to allow valve operation, while simultaneously allowing rotation of the nozzle cap to allow removal thereof from the outlet port. Relocking merely requires the valve stem to be rotated to close the valve. Thereafter, the nozzle cap is replaced over the outlet port and the locking bar is moved into engagement with the stem and the nozzle cap to lock both in their respective positions until the locking bar is removed or retracted with the release tool.

Accordingly, it is an objective of the present invention to provide an anti-tamper system for new or pre-existing fire hydrants.

It is a further objective of the present invention to provide an anti-tamper system for fire hydrants that prevents rotation of both the valve stem and at least one nozzle cap.

It is yet a further objective of the present invention to provide an anti-tamper system for a fire hydrant having a locking rod that enters the stem of the fire hydrant to prevent rotation thereof.

It is still yet another objective of the present invention to prevent intentional introduction of contaminates into a water system, such as a city or town water system.

It is still a further objective of the present invention to prevent unauthorized removal of water from the water system that supplies water to fire hydrants.

Other objectives and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments of this invention. The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a plan view partially in section of one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 2 is a partial section view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 illustrating one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 4 is a section view taken along lines 4-4 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a partial section view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 illustrating one embodiment of the instant invention;

FIG. 6A is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the nozzle cap of the instant invention;

FIG. 6B is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the nozzle cap of the instant invention;

FIG. 6C is a front view of the nozzle cap of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6D is a section view taken along lines 6D-6D of 6C;

FIG. 6E is a rear view of the nozzle cap of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A is a bottom perspective view of one embodiment of the locking rod of the instant invention;

FIG. 7B is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the locking rod of the instant invention;

FIG. 7C is a side view of one embodiment of the locking rod of the instant invention;

FIG. 7D is a top view of one embodiment of the locking rod of the instant invention;

FIG. 7E is an end view of one embodiment of the locking rod of the instant invention;

FIG. 8A is a bottom perspective view of one embodiment of the locking element of the instant invention;

FIG. 8B is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the locking element of the instant invention;

FIG. 8C is a side view of one embodiment of the locking element of the instant invention;

FIG. 8D is an end view of one embodiment of the locking element of the instant invention;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of one embodiment of the release tool of the instant invention;

FIG. 9B is a side view of one embodiment of the release tool of the instant invention;

FIG. 9C is an end view of the release tool of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 9D is an end view of the release tool of FIG. 9A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described a presently preferred embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 6A-E, one embodiment of an anti-tamper system for a fire hydrant is illustrated. The anti-tamper system generally includes a fire hydrant 10 and a locking rod assembly 26. The fire hydrant typically includes a valve 12, a riser 14, a barrel 16, a bonnet 18, a valve stem 20, at least one outlet port 22, and a nozzle cap 24. The anti-tamper system preferably modifies the valve stem 20 to include at least one aperture 32 sized and shaped to accept a portion of the locking rod assembly 26. The nozzle cap 24 includes a threaded surface 36 arranged to cooperate with the outlet port 22 of the fire hydrant 10. A seal 38 should also be provided to cooperate with a surface of the outlet port as is known in the art. The nozzle cap includes a centrally located splined aperture 34 constructed and arranged to cooperate with the locking rod assembly 26. The inner diameter of the splined aperture is sized to accept the locking rod assembly 26 while the splines themselves are constructed and arranged to cooperate with the locking element 30 to prevent rotation of the nozzle cap 24 in the locked position. The splined aperture may also include a snap-ring 44 or other inwardly extending ledge constructed and arranged to cooperate with the locking element to prevent spring 46 from pushing the locking rod assembly out of the splined aperture. The inner surface of the cap also preferably includes a boss 40 to allow the splined aperture to better support the locking rod assembly.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2,4,5,7 and 8, the locking rod assembly 26 generally includes the locking rod 28 and a spring biased locking element 30. The locking rod is preferably an elongated rod constructed of metal or suitable polymeric material to include a slot 42 sized and shaped to accept the locking element 30. A spring 50 is provided to bias the locking element outwardly with respect to the longitudinal centerline of the locking rod and a pivot pin 52 is provided to define an axis of rotation for the locking element 30. In one embodiment (FIG. 2) an O-ring 54 is provided to create a seal between the locking rod and the boss 40. This arrangement is particularly useful for wet barrel applications to prevent water from escaping from between the locking rod and the splined aperture.

In a first embodiment, (FIGS. 1,2) a spring 46 extends between a shoulder 56 on the locking rod 28 and the valve stem 20 to bias the locking rod away from the valve stem aperture 32. In operation, the valve stem 20 would be moved to a closed position and the nozzle cap 24 would be threaded onto the outlet port 22. Thereafter, the locking rod assembly 26 is merely slid into the splined aperture 34 until the locking element passes the snap-ring 44. In this position the distal end of the locking rod penetrates the valve stem and the locking element engages one of the splines to prevent rotation of either element while the snap ring prevents the spring from biasing the locking assembly out of the aperture. The locking rod assembly is released by sliding distal end 62 (FIG. 9B) of release tool 60 into the splined aperture 34 to engage the ramping surface 64 (FIG. 8) of the locking element 30 causing the locking element to be pressed against spring 50 into the locking groove. The spring 46 then biases the locking assembly out of the nozzle cap allowing both the valve stem 20 and the nozzle cap to be rotated for use.

In a second embodiment, FIGS. 4 and 5, the spring 46 cooperates with the boss 40 and an enlarged end portion 48 of the locking rod 28 to bias the locking assembly 26 toward the valve stem 20. In operation, the valve stem 20 is rotated to close the valve 12. The locking rod assembly 26 is slid into the distal end of the splined aperture 34. The distal end 62 of release tool 60 is slid into the splined aperture to engage the ramp surface 64 of the locking element 30. Thereafter, the nozzle cap can be rotated into place on the outlet port to engage the distal end of the locking rod to the valve stem. Removal of the release tool causes the locking element to engage the splines to prevent rotation of the nozzle cap as well as the valve stem. Unlocking the system requires installation of the release tool 60 to compress the locking element 30 into the locking rod 28 allowing the nozzle cap 24 to be removed. Removal of the nozzle cap allows the locking rod to release the valve stem permitting operation of the hydrant valve 12.

Both embodiments are suitable for wet or dry barrel applications and more than one locking rod assembly may be utilized on a single hydrant. It should also be noted that spring pins and the like may be utilized in place of the locking element without departing from the scope of the invention.

All patents and publications mentioned in this specification are indicative of the levels of those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. All patents and publications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

It is to be understood that while a certain form of the invention is illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangement herein described and shown. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention and the invention is not to be considered limited to what is shown and described in the specification.

One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objectives and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The embodiments, methods, procedures and techniques described herein are presently representative of the preferred embodiments, are intended to be exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changes therein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit of the invention and are defined by the scope of the appended claims. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims. 

1. A fire hydrant anti-tampering security system comprising: a first valve fluidly connected to a water supply; a riser; a fire hydrant, said riser fluidly connected between said valve and said fire hydrant, said fire hydrant including a barrel, a bonnet secured to a top of said barrel, a first valve stem, at least one outlet port and a nozzle cap securable to said at least one outlet port; a locking rod secured within said outlet port, one end of said locking rod operatively secured to said first valve stem, an opposite end of said locking rod operative secured within said nozzle cap; a locking element operatively associated and proximate said other end of said locking rod, said locking element being constructed and arranged to prevent movement of said locking rod; and a release tool operatively connectable to said other end of said locking rod and operatively connected to said locking element whereby said release tool moves said locking element and permits movement of said locking rod and rotation of said valve stem.
 2. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 1 wherein said locking element is pivotally secured to said locking rod, a resilient member is secured to said locking rod and said locking element, said resilient member biases said locking element outwardly from a centerline of said locking rod.
 3. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 2 wherein said release tool engages said locking element and pivots said locking element toward said centerline of said locking rod thereby permitting said locking rod to move longitudinally and disengage said first valve stem whereby said first valve stem can be rotated.
 4. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 2 wherein said locking element engages a ring in said nozzle cap, said engagement of said locking element and said ring prevents a longitudinal movement of said locking rod.
 5. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 2 including a biasing device secured between said first end of said locking rod and said first valve stem, said biasing device disengages said locking rod from said first valve stem subsequent to said locking element being disengaged from said ring.
 6. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 3 wherein subsequent to said locking rod being moved longitudinally said nozzle cap is rotated and removed from said at least one outlet port.
 7. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 3 wherein one end of said release tool includes a splined aperture, said splined aperture being constructed and arranged to engage a ramp on said locking element and move said locking element toward said centerline of said locking rod.
 8. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 1 wherein said nozzle cap includes an aperture constructed and arranged to only permit insertion and removal of said release tool.
 9. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 1 wherein said locking element includes a plurality of pins, a resilient member is secured between locking rod and each said pin, said resilient member biases said pins outwardly from a centerline of said locking rod.
 10. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 8 wherein said release tool engages said aperture in said nozzle cap whereby said nozzle cap can be rotated and removed from said at least one outlet port and said nozzle cap ca also be rotated onto said at least one nozzle cap.
 11. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 8 including a removable cover secured to said aperture in said nozzle cap.
 12. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 1 including a coupling on an upper end of said first valve stem, said coupling being constructed and arranged to be engaged by a tool whereby said first valve stem is rotated to open or close said first valve.
 13. The fire hydrant anti-tampering security system of claim 1 wherein said first valve stem extends through said fire hydrant, said riser and is cooperatively connected to said first valve. 